Imagine spending £20 million on a star defender, only to be told he can’t play in a cup final due to a technicality. That’s the frustrating reality Manchester City and Pep Guardiola are facing with Marc Guehi ahead of the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal. But here’s where it gets controversial—Guardiola is now calling for a sudden rule change, sparking a debate that’s dividing fans and pundits alike.
The issue stems from Guehi’s high-profile move to the Etihad Stadium, which was finalized after City’s Carabao Cup first-leg victory at St James’ Park. According to EFL regulations, players must be registered before the first leg to be eligible for the return fixture. Since Guehi wasn’t on the books in time, he’s currently ineligible to face the Gunners—unless City can convince the EFL to bend the rules.
And this is the part most people miss—this isn’t an isolated incident. Earlier this season, Antoine Semenyo joined City after playing for Bournemouth in the Carabao Cup’s second round. Yet, he was allowed to feature in both semi-final ties. The inconsistency has left many scratching their heads, including Guardiola, who didn’t hold back in his post-match interview with Sky Sports.
“Hopefully in March we can arrive with the players fit, and hopefully we can convince the Carabao Cup officials that Marc can play in this final,” Guardiola said after City’s 5-1 aggregate win over Newcastle. “It’s difficult to understand that the club makes a big investment to bring in a player, he belongs to us, and I don’t understand why he can’t play in the final.”
Guardiola’s frustration is palpable. He’s even suggested sending a formal letter to the EFL, pleading for clarity and flexibility. “Hopefully they can change it and he can play,” he added. But is this a fair ask, or is City trying to exploit a loophole?
The rules around player eligibility in the Carabao Cup have indeed shifted this season, but the lack of consistency is raising eyebrows. While Semenyo’s case set a precedent, Guehi’s situation feels like a glaring oversight. Here’s the bold question—should the EFL prioritize strict adherence to rules, or is there room for exceptions when millions are invested in a player’s future?
This debate isn’t just about Guehi or City; it’s about the fairness and flexibility of competition rules in modern football. What do you think? Should the EFL grant Guardiola’s request, or is he asking for too much? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss.
